Personal Recollections of the Civil War By One Who Took Part in It as a Private Soldier in the 21st Volunteer Regiment of Infantry from Massachusetts

"Personal Recollections of the Civil War" by James Madison Stone is a memoir providing a firsthand look at the American Civil War through the eyes of a common soldier. The story follows the author's journey from enlisting and training at Camp Lincoln in Massachusetts, to marching and living as a rank-and-file member of the 21st Volunteer Regiment of Infantry. Stone shares personal observations and experiences of camp life, military drills, and everyday interactions with fellow soldiers, presenting a picture of both hardship and camaraderie. The narrative focuses on the social aspects and personal experiences of war, giving insight into the life of an ordinary soldier during an extraordinary time in American history, as opposed to a deep examination of military tactics and strategy.